Early Times Report
JAMMU, July 19: The Department of Dermatology headed by Dr Payal Chauhan, Associate Professor at AIIMS Jammu continues its remarkable trajectory of growth, evolving into a multidisciplinary centre of excellence. Since the commencement of its OPD services in August 2024, the department has catered to an impressive number of more than 21,000 patients, underscoring the region's growing reliance on the institute for specialized dermatologic care. Alongside its well-established diagnostic and therapeutic offerings (including chemical peels, cryotherapy, microbiological staining, videodermoscopy for hairs and nails, ultraviolet fluorescence dermoscopy, patch and photopatch tests for various indication, and exclusive regional phototherapy, nail surgeries)-the department has introduced several advanced procedures tailored to meet a wide spectrum of dermatologic, cosmetic, and minimally invasive surgical needs. These additions reflect the department's vision of offering holistic, evidence-based skin care, all under one roof.
Harnessing Regenerative Science
Dr Payal Chauhan informed that, this month marked the launch of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, one of the most promising and in-demand treatments in regenerative dermatology. AIIMS Jammu employs advanced, controlled centrifuge systems to derive highly concentrated platelet preparations enriched with growth factors like PDGF, VEGF, and TGF-?, ensuring both safety and efficacy. The therapy is utilised to benefit patients of various indications including post-acne scars, various causes of hair fall, and to enhance wound healing and repair. With the start of these services, the department plans to help a wide number of patients, driven by increasing public interest in non-pharmacologic and biologically active therapies said Dr Payal.
Xanthelasma Excision: Bridging Aesthetics and Clinical Dermatology
PRP being utilised for atrophic acne scars stimulates collagen remodelling, improves skin texture, and softens deep scars. It offers enhanced results when combined with microneedling or subcision. It is a procedure safe for all skin types, with minimal downtime. When used in male and female pattern hair loss, it promotes follicular angiogenesis and reactivates dormant hair follicles, especially effective in early to moderate hair loss, offering a drug-free, natural alternative to systemic therapies said Dr Payal Chauhan.
As awareness grows, PRP/PRF therapy is poised to become a cornerstone of the department's aesthetic and regenerative offerings.
With a growing demand for aesthetic procedures, the department now has started performing surgical excision of xanthelasma palpebrarum, a common condition characterized by cholesterol-rich yellowish deposits around the eyelids.
oThese procedures are conducted under local anesthesia in sterile settings, using precision techniques that ensure minimal scarring and fast recovery. This patient-friendly, office-based approach offers an effective alternative to laser or cautery methods, with high satisfaction rates.
oImportantly, patients also undergo metabolic evaluation and receive lifestyle counseling to address associated dyslipidemia, reflecting the department's comprehensive approach.
This service seamlessly merges aesthetic finesse with clinical safety, enhancing the scope of minor dermatologic surgeries at AIIMS Jammu. The department is also performing various other dermatosurgical procedures including ear lobe repair, nose piercing repair, excision of various cysts and benign tumours.
Phototherapy: A Targeted Approach to Chronic Skin Diseases
Dr Payal Chauhan briefed that AIIMS Jammu remains the only centre in the region offering both whole-body and localized hand-and-foot phototherapy-a cornerstone therapy for conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and chronic eczema. Patients are routinely being enrolled for hand-and-foot phototherapy, and for whole-body phototherapy for various indications. These services are gaining traction as more patients experience long-term remission and improved quality of life through this targeted, non-invasive treatment modality.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Surgical and Laser-Based Services
In line with its patient-centred and innovation-driven approach, the department is set to expand its services even further. Vitiligo surgeries are already planned for patients with stable, non-segmental vitiligo, offering options such as mini-punch grafting and suction blister grafting to restore pigmentation in refractory cases.
Additionally, laser services-including those for pigmentation, scars, vascular lesions, and hair reduction-are on the horizon, poised to complement the department's growing armamentarium of aesthetic and therapeutic interventions.
Leading with Innovation and Impact
With each newly introduced service-be it advanced phototherapy, regenerative PRP therapy, or the upcoming vitiligo surgeries and laser treatments- under the able leadership of our worthy Executive Director & CEO, Prof. (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta. the Department of Dermatology at AIIMS Jammu is on a fast track to becoming a comprehensive center for advanced dermatologic care, strengthening its identity as a regional leader in not just Jammu & Kashmir but the adjoining states. By combining clinical precision, patient safety, and evidence-based innovation, the department not only addresses chronic skin conditions but also ventures confidently into the expanding fields of surgical and aesthetic dermatology. As patient numbers continue to rise and services diversify, the department remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence, accessibility, and compassionate care. |
